United℠ Explorer Card vs. IHG One Rewards Premier
Side-by-side comparison · Updated 2026 · Independently reviewed
United℠ Explorer Card
Chase
4.2
Free 1st + 2nd checked bags. 60,000-mile bonus. 2x on United, dining, hotel.
Full review →IHG One Rewards Premier
Chase
4.2
140,000-point bonus. 26x at IHG. 4th night free on award stays.
Full review →WealthSpott Verdict
United℠ Explorer Card and IHG One Rewards Premier are closely matched. The right choice depends on your top spending categories and whether you'll use each card's perks.
Feature
United℠ Explorer Card
IHG One Rewards
Annual Fee
$95/yr Best
$99/yr
Sign-up Bonus
60,000 miles
140,000 points
Rewards Rate
1x-2x
3x-26x
Rewards Type
Miles
Points
0% Intro APR
N/A
N/A
Regular APR
22.49%-29.49% Variable
21.49%-28.49% Variable Best
Foreign Transaction Fee
None
None
Recommended Credit Score
670-850
670-850
United℠ Explorer Card
Pros
- Free first and second checked bags on United
- 60,000-mile sign-up bonus
- Two United Club passes per year
- 2x on United, dining, and hotels
Cons
- $95 annual fee
- Miles tied to United/Star Alliance
- Standard 1x earning on non-bonus purchases
IHG One Rewards Premier
Pros
- 140,000-point sign-up bonus
- Free night certificate annually
- Fourth night free on reward stays
- Platinum Elite status
Cons
- $99 annual fee
- Points tied to IHG ecosystem
- Points worth less per point than Marriott/Hilton
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